PROBATE VALUATIONS IN ALDERLEY EDGE
The History of Alderley Edge
Due to the discovery of flint implements, occupation of the areas near to Alderley Edge can be traced back to the Mesolithic period (9600 – 4000 BC). Recorded discoveries of the mining of copper, also indicates occupation during the Bronze Age (2500 – 800 BC). Alderley Edge was also known to have been occupied in around AD 317, as a significant number of Roman coins were uncovered in the area.
The origins of the town’s name are partially disputed; with Nether Alderley being recorded as a medieval settlement. Alderley Edge was not recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 but was recorded in 1280. In the 13th century, Alderley Edge was known as Chorlegh and later Chorley. At this time, the land consisted of numerous estates, which had multiple owners.
Agriculture was a key part of the Chorley and Nether Alderley economy in the 13th century, with Nether Alderley obtaining market status in 1253. Key buildings in the history of Alderley Edge have been dated back to the 14th and 16th century. These include Chorley Hall and Nether Alderley Mill, built in the 14th century, and Old Hall, built in the 16th century.
In the 17th century and 18th century, Alderley Edge was a copper and lead mining town. Much of the town’s development, and its current name, was due to the introduction of the railway, which occurred in 1842. New houses, roads, and landmarks were established; the population expanded from 561 residents in 1841, to 2856 residents in 1902.
An important part of the history of Alderley Edge is the story of the White Wizard and the White Mare, published in 1884 by William E A Axon. The story tells of an interaction between a wizard and a farmer, with the Wizard later revealing the waiting place of a group of knights and horses, who would rise when the country needed them. This has been tied in with the legendary tale of King Arthur and his knights; with many further magical ties being a part of Alderley Edge history.